Signs of an Abusive Relationship

There are many signs of an abusive relationship. The most revealing sign is fear of your partner. If you feel like you have to walk on eggshells around your partner - constantly watching what you say and do in order to avoid a blow-up - chances are your relationship is unhealthy and abusive. Other signs that you may be in an abusive relationship include a partner who belittles you or tries to control you, and feelings of self-loathing, helplessness, and desperation.

To determine whether your relationship is abusive, answer the questions below. The more “yes” answers you have, the more likely it is that you’re in an abusive relationship.

SIGNS THAT YOU’RE IN AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP

Your Inner Thoughts & Feelings

Your Partner’s Belittling Behavior

Do you:

Does your partner:

Feel afraid of your partner much of the time?

Humiliate or yell at you?

Avoid certain topics out of fear of angering your partner?

Criticize you and put you down?

Feel that you can’t do anything right for your partner?

Treat you so badly that you’re embarrassed for your friends or family to see?